Starting a PC Repair Business
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PC Repair is Ideal for Electronics Enthusiasts
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PC repair is considerably different today than it was just a few years back. Plug-and-play technology has largely eliminated many of the conflicts common in the 1990s, and widespread use of interchangeable parts has greatly reduced the need for esoteric tools. While PC repair is an intriguing and diverse field, the complex operation of circuit boards, power supplies, and flowing current requires a thorough understanding of electronics and electricity. PC repair technicians often hold--or are working toward--a degree in a field like Electronics Engineering or Computer Engineering Technology. It is also an endeavor suitable for those with plenty of experience building computers from the ground up, as this experience lends itself to hands-on education in computer functionality.
PC Repair May be Done Almost Anywhere
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PC repair is a field of work that can be performed in virtually any environment. While some repair shops lease or purchase a dedicated commercial office for their work, just as many repair persons work from their home, repairing computers in a home office or garage workshop. While PC repair can be easily performed in a sparsely-equipped spare bedroom, the ideal home office environment includes a workbench with plenty of surface area, static-discharge points, and several electrical outlets. A small home network is also helpful when transfering files or troubleshooting network card issues, and a small selection of commonly used replacement parts (like heat-sinks, power supplies, and hard-drive caddies) can reduce frantic trips to the electronics store.
A Business License is Required
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Starting a business requires, at the very least, a county and/or local business license, and PC repair businesses are no exception to the rule. Before embarking on a PC repair venture, be sure to obtain all necessary licenses from the state, county, and local municipality. In addition, a separate "sales and use tax" certificate may be required; check with local licensing officials to ensure compliance with applicable laws.
PC Repair Requires Insurance
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Because PC repair persons take possession of, modify, and disassemble the personal property of their customers, insurance is critical to protect the business. In addition, businesses that provide house call services may also consider becoming both bonded and insured to reduce customer concerns surrounding having someone in their home.
Standard Office Supplies Will Be Needed
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With all licensing in place and a business plan at least in development, PC repair businesses have a need for many of the same supplies found in other offices. Customer databases, invoicing software, and invoices are staples of business operation, and business cards are almost essential. Professional attire and presentation will help solidify customer confidence, and an assortment of pens and a credit card merchant account will make conducting business much easier. With all these things in place, a PC repair business can be a dream job for those with a sincere interest in electronics.
A PC Repair Business Needs Tools
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Along with the many office supplies mentioned above, a PC repair person's standard toolbox should be clean and professional while including the necessary implements. A small, hand-held toolbox should be sufficient for most repair jobs, and a business logo plastered on the outside of the box will inspire brand recognition while discouraging theft. Inside the toolbox, be sure to keep a variety of screwdrivers (both flat head and Phillips) in multiple sizes, as well as anti-static wristlets. A small hammer or rubber mallet may be necessary on some jobs, and a flat, sturdy blade-like device is sometimes necessary for opening sealed computer cases (the Mac Mini, for example, requires this type of tool). An abundance of small screws, power adapters, heat-sink fans, and wires also help restore failed computer components in a pinch.
PC Repair Persons May Make House Calls
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Because computers are often stored in hard-to-reach places and may be fed by a multitude of wires, the PC repair is also ideal for "house call" services. PC repair persons who choose to make house calls should strive to keep a clean, professional-looking vehicle well-equipped for on-the-fly troubleshooting. Computer equipment is generally small enough to be transported in virtually any size of vehicle, but small SUVs and "crossover vehicles" provide more room for storing tools and supplies, and can provide more convenient loading space should a machine need to be transported. Technicians who frequently work on the road and repair larger equipment (like floor-model printers and rack-mount equipment) may choose a cargo van for more transportation and delivery capabilities.
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